Looking at the Vauxhall tonight

So, I took the crank in to be polished today and it is standard sized. I am happy about this.

Managed to get a set of 30 thou over pistons on ebay for not too bad money (72 pounds) so I can reuse the block. Discovered by accident that the PO had ordered seals so all this is left is main and big end bearings. Sadly the price makes my eyes water but will have to suck it up in the next few days (I have a friend coming from Scotland so she can bring the parts)

Anyway, on to tonight's questions. I have a seized head and an OK looking head. I also have two camshafts (OHC engine) Since I can't seem to get valves anyway, I don't see any real point in pulling the valves out. Anyone have any thoughts? Just feeling like leaving well enough alone.

At least take out the intake valves and decoke them on a wire wheel and then lap them in with valve lapping compound. A good idea as the intake valves are prone to loading up on the back side. [ Especially if cheap low grade fuel has been used!] A simple job that is done with simple tools. An equally simple way to see if the valves are seating is to turn the head upside down and pour some alcohol in the cylinder side of the head and see if it leaks past the valves.. or shine a light at the valve side of the head and look in the intake and exhaust ports for light leaking through. Of course you know to not mix up the valves and not allow any compound into the guide while lapping. Now is the time to check the condition of your head, you will be bummed if you get this motor completely built only to find the valves are leaking. I have found that checking the intake VALVES, SEATS, and GUIDES, can be a good indication of the health of a head, as the exhaust valves are generally heck for stout.

That head may allow up to 0.004 tolerance. You may wish to find out.

Thanks! very helpful

I like this one! Hi Bert!